At 27: Beitar Jerusalem star Yarden Shua aims for a major deal abroad

Is Israeli football in for a dramatic departure of Yarden Shua? While Beitar Jerusalem prepares for this evening's return leg (Thursday) against Austria Vienna with dreams of reaching the Conference League playoffs, the team's star—alongside Omer Atzili—and a fan favorite is looking for his next destination at what he considers the peak of his career.

According to a report by Israel Hayom, Yarden Shua is targeting leagues that can meet his salary demands. Currently, the star earns 350,000 euros per season and is aiming for a range of 600,000–700,000 euros. He believes that in leagues such as the MLS (USA and Canada), Japan, or Dubai, he could secure such offers at his age, even if they have not yet arrived despite preliminary inquiries.

Consequently, Shua has reportedly sent a message to football agents: anyone who brings him an offer from these three leagues that matches his salary expectations will be rewarded accordingly. A transfer for the Beitar Jerusalem captain should be relatively straightforward given the low release clause in his contract, which stands at 1.5 million euros.

The reasons behind Shua's desire to leave are rooted solely in financial aspects, despite his senior status within the team and among the fans. His change in personal status this year, having married his partner Or Zuaretz last June, has also been a factor.

The 27-year-old attacking midfielder and forward joined Beitar Jerusalem in the summer of 2020 following stints at Maccabi Haifa and Bnei Yehuda. In his third season with the club, he finished as the Premier League's top assist provider, a feat he repeated in the 2023-2024 season. Early last year, he extended his contract with Beitar through the end of the 2027-2028 season. With Beitar, he has won the State Cup and the Toto Cup.